Each day that the BC Teachers’ Federation (BCTF) Provincial Bargaining Team is at the table with the employer at the BCTF building, we invite some members to join as observers. It’s important that teachers have a chance to witness the bargaining table, to see the team at work representing them, and to hear directly from the employer. It is also a way to remind the employer that the Provincial Bargaining Team is there on behalf of more than 50,000 members, who care deeply about their students and their schools.

Below, teachers share their reflections after observing the Provincial Bargaining Team in action on December 16:

“As someone at the beginning of my union journey, being able to observe the provincial bargaining table was an opportunity for which I am deeply grateful. As a woman, I found it especially empowering to see other women leading and representing the Federation and its members. At a time when—despite significant progress—women are still too often pushed aside, I had the privilege of watching Robin and Winona push back confidently, intelligently, and with unwavering resolve. Witnessing this gave me hope that anyone—especially other women—who may feel hesitant to pursue or continue a career in education amid heightened scrutiny, uncertainty, and burnout can see that it is possible to remain engaged, inspired, and supported, and that they are not alone. It reinforced for me the strength of solidarity: that when we stand together, we amplify our voices, protect one another, and create space for lasting change.”
– Secondary school teacher, Vancouver Island North

“As a new teacher, it felt really good to know that issues close to me such as teacher retention and incentives were being discussed at the table. As I finished observing my first bargaining session, I was left feeling inspired by our leaders. It was amazing to watch our lead negotiators advocate for over 50,000 members with such poise and grace. It’s clear that the BCTF team understands the diverse needs of educators across the province, and that our main priorities, such as working conditions and classroom supports, are being thoughtfully represented at the table. After observing the team at the table, I have absolute confidence in their strategy and skills to bring the best deal forward for teachers. As a BCTF member, I am prepared to support them in any way possible, as I know they are doing everything they can for us.”
– Elementary school teacher, Vancouver Elementary and Adult Educators’ Society

 “A key takeaway I walked away with is that if we need to take job action, it is not from lack of effort or skill on the Provincial Bargaining Team’s part. I saw how thorough and thoughtful our Provincial Bargaining Team is in crafting their message to the employer. I learned our Provincial Bargaining Team aims to achieve the best possible deal, ensuring they can tell members, ‘We listened to your priorities, and we made sure the employer heard them.’ I learned that being a member of the Federation’s Provincial Bargaining Team may be incredibly frustrating as, after nine months of being at the table, key priorities are still being left unaddressed by the employer. And I learned how skilled our lead negotiators are. They were able to ask the right questions at the right time to get answers from, what appeared to be, a very evasive team acting on behalf of the employer.”
– Secondary school teacher, Mount Arrowsmith Teachers’ Association

“Being an observer at the provincial bargaining meeting was an incredibly powerful and affirming experience for me. The strength, unity and solidarity of the Provincial Bargaining Team were evident throughout the proceeding. It was evident that the interest of both teachers and students are being represented with care, clarity, and commitment. The dynamics in the room clearly reflected the strength and preparedness of our Provincial Bargaining Team. Robin Tosczak, one of our lead negotiators, communicated a clear, firm, and focused message to the BC Public School Employers’ Association, remaining composed and resolute while articulating the priorities and expectations of teachers.”
– Elementary teacher, New Westminster Teachers’ Union